1. Calderón uses a number of repetitive actions in his drama. Compare and contrast the following:

a. the King’s questioning of Gutierre (while Leonor hides) and later, of Henry (while Gutierre hides)

b. the garden scenes at the beginning and end of Act II, first Henry and then Gutierre visit Mencía at night.

c. the different versions of Mencía death (that of Ludovico, of Gutierre)

2. In his soliloquy, how does Gutierre rationalize his suspicions of Mencía and future plan of action? (pages 44-47)

3. Describe how the sense of honor affects the actions of and consequences for the following characters:

Gutierre:

Mencía:

Leonor:

King Pedro:

4. The play presents a series of symbols and metaphors. How do these contribute to the development of the play’s action and to its meaning?

a. the dagger

b. the bloodied handprint

c. metaphors of medicine, health and sickness

d. Gurierre’s bloody hand at the end of the play.

5. What is Coquín’s role in the drama?

6. Do you believe that King Pedro was just in his decision that Leonor marry Gutierre? Why or why not? What is Leonor’s response? What does the marriage of Gutierre and Leonor hold for their future?

7. What makes this play a tragedy?